Engaging in Major League Baseball can be compared to a strategic game. It requires pinpointing the ideal throw for every batter and circumstance. However, at times, simply unleashing a blazing fastball can do the trick. This is an area where Angel’s newcomer Ben Joyce excels.
During the final inning, Joyce achieved a historic moment by delivering the swiftest strikeout pitch in MLB history against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The pitch clocked in at 105.5 mph.
“Immediately after, I glanced up and saw it,” remarked Joyce. “It was a crucial game moment with all the fans engaged. Hence, I believe the environment played a role. With two strikes, I simply aimed to exert all my energy.”
That level of velocity is likely to overpower any batter in the league, as expressed by Angels catcher Logan O’Hoppe. “I reckon anything above 105, good luck to anyone in the path of that ball,” O’Hoppe commented. “It’s remarkable, reflecting the effort he dedicates and the character he possesses.”
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Even the online community was astounded by Joyce’s delivery.
“Attempting to hit that seems unfathomable,” read one remark.
“105.5 mph is truly remarkable! How can one make contact with that?” expressed another user.
“That’s mind-blowing, nailing the inner edge at 105,” added a third commenter.
For a batter, witnessing Ben Joyce take the field at present must evoke one of the most daunting sensations.
Ben Joyce Is Crafting an Outstanding Rookie Campaign
Besides setting that record, Joyce has been compiling an exceptional rookie season.
Over 34.2 innings, he has maintained a 2.08 ERA, 33 strikeouts, 1.145 WHIP, a 208 ERA+, and secured four saves. Undoubtedly, he stands out as one of the most dependable and steady relief pitchers in baseball, all this at just 23 years of age.
If he sustains this performance, Joyce will undoubtedly evolve into a significant asset for the Angels in the years ahead.
Image Source: Ben Joyce @ Instagram